Lib Dems reveal Congestion Charge strategy

12.13.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 26th Nov 2007

Judith Lubbock

The Norwich Liberal Democrats at City Hall will this week call upon the Council to support its Congestion Charge strategy. Under the Lib Dem policy, 7 key tests would have to be passed before any decision on charging was made.

Eaton Ward City Councillor Judith Lubbock commented "What is clear is that before we consider congestion charging, certain conditions have to be in place. We have to ensure that we protect the competitiveness and economic viability of Norwich and we have to have a public transport system strong enough to be a viable alternative to private cars". The Lib Dems recognise the environmental benefits and potential for public transport investment that congestion charging could bring, but would need to see 7 key matters addressed satisfactorily.

The full Council motion is:

Motion - Congestion Charging and Public Transport for Norwich

Councillor Lubbock to move:-

'This Council requests that before any decision on a congestion charge for Norwich is made, the following matters are addressed satisfactorily:

(1) That a full public consultation has taken place

(2) That Norwich jobs are not put at risk or the city's economy put at a competitive disadvantage to the rest of the region.

(3) That improvement to public transport is in place as a viable alternative to private cars before any congestion charge is established.

(4) That a congestion charge be proved to be effective at reducing congestion where there is currently a problem.

(5) That any money raised be spent on improving the transport environment of Norwich

(6) That those living within the congestion charge zone are exempt from payment.

(7) That, regardless of the outcome of the unitary debate Park & Ride and its subsidy will be an integral part of the congestion charge policy'.